Everybody arrived at Gunwharf Quays separately, some people came by car whereas the teachers took the train down after having a big breakfast (they wanted to prepare for a week of fantastic student cooking). Once everyone had arrived, we were split into our separate groups and got on to our boats (Challenger 1 and 4). After a comprehensive safety brief of above and below deck (including how to flush the heads) we set sail for Yarmouth. It wasn’t windy enough for the main sail, although the two front sails were put up and we motored most of the way, including students and teachers having a chance to steer the boat. Also, while on voyage, we were taught how to winch. As we were arriving in Yarmouth, the Port Watch went below deck to prepare dinner (chicken fajitas) which was very successful as the chicken definitely wasn’t undercooked although a tiny bit too much cheese was grated. After dinner, the crew of the two boats reunited and some people watched the Euros final (which England sadly lost) while some people went on a walk around Yarmouth and to have showers. Everyone was in bed by 10:30pm ready for a VERY early start of 6am in the morning (which everyone was totally appreciative of).

By Roisin & Annabella

Today we had to get up at 6am!!

We then got the boat ready and left by 6:50 which also meant we were very tired. luckily, we had tea makers to save us.

We were sailing with both the yankee and main sail which led to a hurricaine during lunch when the team decided to gybe.

Although it was very rainy and cold it did mean there was a lot of wind. the rain was not nice but did make the experience more extreme and added some pressure which was challenging but fun.

We arrived at the docks at 3 and spent a while tidying the boat away

We had until 6 to walk around Weymouth and get some food which was fun. some of us went to the beach.

We had fish and chips for dinner and the chips were from the chippy. Dinner was very fun and lively although some crew members would have probably preferred a calmer dinner. Rose, Neve and Charlotte got a bit physical. However, it was very funny, and it acted as a bonding experience for the crew making us closer together.

Now we have time to shower and potentially see another sunset.

We will wake up a bit later tomorrow and will have more free time to see the beach.

Bye for now ;0

Rose, Charlotte & Neve

Today the crew allowed us to sleep until 7:30, port watch, consisting of Jacob, Adam, Dylan, Annabella & Rosin, oversaw breakfast which was pancakes with a selection of fillings.

Later, we were introduced to the tackiest souvenir contest which was both hard and fun to get our tackiest souvenir. An example of this was Port Watches souvenir which was a glass bottle with Weymouth beach sand inside. We were also able to explore the delights of Weymouth.

Then we set sail for Poole, the conditions were rough with big waves throwing people around. Unfortunately, the conditions made a couple of the crew seasick. Later, the conditions calmed, and we continued forwards to Poole, on the way we saw the Old Harry rock, and we also saw the RNLI training with the helicopter. Before that we had heard the sound of machine guns firing in the distance from the army range. Towards the end of our journey, we put down our sails and went into port.

We finished the day with dinner which was sausage and mash cooked by PORT watch, judging the tackiest souvenir challenge and showers.

See you tomorrow.

By Adam, Jacob & Dylan (Port Watch)

The day started with wakeup at 7.30. Got ready fairly quickly and had crumpets for breakfast :>. After this, we did the finale of the wacky, tacky, souvenir competition. Sadly, our boat lost due to un-balanced staff voting (Our boat is better). After this, we took turns climbing the mast. This was very fun; the view was great. Next, we prepped the boat and left the port of Poole. This started our journey to Cowes. Getting there we put up all 3 sails and went past Brownsea island and the Needles. For lunch we had some lovely hot dogs with a choice of onions, ketchup and mustard. After lunch, we cruised whilst enjoying the sun and taking in the view of the sea. We then took down the Yankee and the Stay, with the main sail following soon after. We finished the journey with the engine, arriving on a mooring buoy of Cowes. Dylan went over the edge to do thisn:0 . Whilst he was doing this, the starboard watch prepared delicious bolognaise. Now port watch is washing up and we are about to head to Portsmouth for twilight sail. The staff and the volunteers were great again, like normal helping us, especially with the mast climb. Bye :>

By Ben and Harrison